Giovanni's Shrimp Truck Kahuku
Iconic, graffiti-covered food truck on Oahu's North Shore serving legendary garlic shrimp plates.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shorter lines, more relaxed
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck Kahuku
Best Time
Shorter lines, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic, graffiti-covered food truck on Oahu's North Shore serving legendary garlic shrimp plates.
"This hidden gem understood the assignment! There’s so much flavor in their garlic shrimp scampi."
🎯 Cash is King (Sometimes)
While they accept cards, having cash can speed up your order. Check if they have an ATM on-site!
👟 Casual Attire Recommended
It's a food truck! Dress comfortably for the Hawaiian heat and humidity.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Main Truck
The iconic, finger-licking good butter and garlic shrimp that put Giovanni's on the map. A must-try!
Spicy Garlic Shrimp
Main Truck
For those who like a kick, this version offers a flavorful punch with a side of spicy sauce.
Garlic Hot Dog
Main Truck
A unique and popular side option, perfect for pairing with your shrimp plate.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Experience
Embrace the North Shore Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cash is King (Sometimes)
While they accept cards, having cash can speed up your order. Check if they have an ATM on-site!
👟 Casual Attire Recommended
It's a food truck! Dress comfortably for the Hawaiian heat and humidity.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water or grab a refreshing drink. Strawberry lemonade is a popular choice!
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is available, but it can fill up quickly. Be patient and look around.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cash is King (Sometimes)
While they accept cards, having cash can speed up your order. Check if they have an ATM on-site!
👟 Casual Attire Recommended
It's a food truck! Dress comfortably for the Hawaiian heat and humidity.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water or grab a refreshing drink. Strawberry lemonade is a popular choice!
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is available, but it can fill up quickly. Be patient and look around.
🧽 Bring Wipes!
Garlic butter shrimp can get messy, so wet wipes are your best friend.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is a beloved Oahu institution, celebrated for its incredibly flavorful garlic shrimp scampi and generous portions. While the wait can be long, most visitors find the experience and the delicious food well worth it. Some reviewers note occasional inconsistencies or prefer other shrimp trucks, but the iconic status and taste keep people coming back.
"This is hands down one of the best garlic shrimp scampi I’ve ever had! I’m a foodie and have traveled to many places for food, I love shrimp scampi but you can’t find real good ones just anywhere. This hidden gem understood the assignment! There’s so much flavor in their garlic shrimp scampi. It was a like a whole party in my mouth. The next day I woke up craving it again, that’s how good it was! The lady at the counter was also very kind and nice. I would highly recommend it this place."
Glenda Lopez-Rodriguez
"We did a last minute drive around the island and ended up here along the way.
ATMOSPHERE:
Look for the white food truck with the Giovanni's name. Driving from the east side of the island, you're gonna see a lot of shrimp trucks, but this one is the best! There's a permanent open-air covered pavilion with tables & seats.
FOOD:
Shrimp Scampi
Total awesomeness. Finger licking good butter & garlic. It comes with 2 scoops of rice topped with chopped garlic, though I'm not a fan of rice with shrimp (maybe do a mac salad?) I could NOT replicate this at home no matter how much I tried.
SERVICE:
The staff were friendly and food service was quick.
OVERALL:
It's all in the fun of driving there, mingling with locals & tourists, all on a lazy Sunday afternoon."
Maui World Travelers
"Went on a Monday at 4pm and there wasn’t a line but felt rushed by the guy taking orders. Although the guy was rude, I can’t deny the fact that they ran like a well oiled machine and food was delicious. By the time my credit card payment went through, my food was being handed to me. We got the scampi shrimp and the spicy sauce on the side. Great flavor and the rice was perfectly cooked. Definitely need to stop here and worth the hype. Didn’t have any trouble finding parking."
Barb P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is located on the North Shore of Oahu at 56-505 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731.
Yes, there is parking available at the Kahuku location. However, it can get very busy, especially on weekends and during peak hours. Be prepared to circle for a spot or be patient.
Yes, you can drive from Waikiki to Giovanni's in Kahuku. The drive typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic. It's a popular stop on a North Shore road trip.
Yes, Giovanni's has multiple locations. Besides Kahuku, you can find them in Haleiwa and Kaka'ako (Honolulu). The Kaka'ako location at H Mart offers a similar experience with less wait time and AC!
For many, the drive to the North Shore for Giovanni's is absolutely worth it for the authentic experience and delicious garlic shrimp. However, if you're short on time, consider their Honolulu location. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need to buy tickets. Giovanni's is a food truck, and you order and pay directly at the counter. Be prepared for a potential line, especially during busy times.
Operating hours can vary, but they are typically open for lunch and dinner. It's always a good idea to check their social media or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially if you're planning a visit during a holiday.
A plate of shrimp typically costs around $16-$20 and includes two scoops of rice. This is considered a good value for the amount of shrimp you receive.
Yes, Giovanni's Shrimp Truck generally accepts credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand as a backup, especially if you encounter any technical issues or want to tip.
No, there is no admission fee to enter the area where Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is located. It's a public roadside spot. You only pay for the food you order.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The most popular dish is undoubtedly the Garlic Shrimp Scampi, known for its generous amount of garlic and butter. The Spicy Garlic Shrimp is also a favorite for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Shrimp plates typically come with two scoops of rice, often topped with chopped garlic. Some people prefer mac salad instead of rice, but it's not always an option.
Giovanni's primarily focuses on shrimp dishes. While they offer a garlic hot dog, there are no dedicated vegetarian or vegan main courses.
The wait time for food can vary significantly. During peak hours, you might wait an hour or more. However, some visitors have reported quick service, especially during off-peak times or at their other locations.
The shrimp at Giovanni's is generally considered fresh and flavorful, contributing to its popularity. Many reviewers rave about the quality and taste.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic graffiti-covered truck, the bustling food truck scene, and of course, mouth-watering close-ups of the garlic shrimp plates. The open-air pavilion also offers a relaxed backdrop.
It can be challenging during peak hours. Try visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon to get clearer shots of the truck and your food without too many people in the background.
Late afternoon can offer softer lighting, while midday provides bright, direct light. Consider the angle of the sun to avoid harsh shadows on your food shots.
The front of the truck with its vibrant graffiti is a must. Also, focus on the food itself – the glistening garlic shrimp and fluffy rice make for great close-ups.
It's always best to ask for permission before taking photos of staff members. They are usually busy serving customers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for potential wait times, which might test the patience of younger children. Visiting during off-peak hours or opting for the Honolulu location at H Mart can make the experience smoother. The casual nature of a food truck means kids can move around a bit more freely than in a formal restaurant setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
This makes it a more affordable option compared to sit-down restaurants on Oahu. While it's not the cheapest meal you'll find, the quality and quantity make it a worthwhile splurge for many. To maximize your budget, consider sharing plates if you have smaller appetites or ordering one shrimp plate and one garlic hot dog. Bringing your own water bottle can also save on drink costs. Remember that while they accept cards, having some cash on hand might expedite your order and is always a good backup.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
To make the most of your road trip, aim to visit during weekdays or outside of peak lunch hours to minimize wait times. If you're on a tight schedule, the Kaka'ako location in Honolulu offers a convenient alternative without the long drive. Regardless, Giovanni's is a memorable culinary highlight for any Oahu road trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Giovanni's Experience: More Than Just Shrimp
The food itself is the star, with the Garlic Shrimp Scampi being the undisputed champion. Reviewers consistently praise its rich, garlicky flavor and the generous portion of shrimp. While some find it a bit oily, the overwhelming sentiment is that it's incredibly delicious and worth the wait. The spicy garlic shrimp offers a welcome kick for those who prefer a bit more heat. Don't overlook the garlic hot dog as a unique side option that complements the shrimp plates perfectly.
+1While the Kahuku location is iconic, it's important to note that wait times can be significant, especially on weekends. Some travelers suggest visiting during off-peak hours or considering their other locations in Haleiwa or Kaka'ako for a potentially shorter wait and a more controlled dining environment (like air conditioning!).
Navigating the North Shore Food Truck Scene
+1 Some travelers even prefer other spots, citing Tanaka Shrimp or Jenny's Shrimp for their spicy garlic options. When visiting Giovanni's, embrace the food truck culture. This means casual dining, often with limited seating and a focus on takeaway. Be prepared for potential lines, but use the time to soak in the local atmosphere. Many visitors find that exploring the surrounding shops or enjoying the beach while waiting enhances the overall experience.
For those seeking a less crowded or more comfortable dining experience, Giovanni's Honolulu location at H Mart offers a compelling alternative. It provides the same famous garlic shrimp but with the added benefits of air conditioning, seating, and significantly shorter wait times. This can be a great option if you're short on time or prefer a more relaxed setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit